About
ThursDates at OMCA | Pop-Up Performance with Mia Pixley, Crochet Jam with Ramekon O’Arwisters, Music Set by DJ Mark DiVita, and Gallery Chats
Adults 18+
Ease into an evening of creativity and connection at ThursDates, where music, movement, and hands-on art come together in the warm after-hours shine of OMCA. Start with Crochet Jam, a relaxed, no-rules finger-knitting experience rooted in African American weaving traditions, where you can weave, chat, and unwind at your own pace. In the same gallery, lose yourself in the meditative sounds of Mia Pixley, whose cello, voice, and spoken word combine classical and experimental influences to create stirring, transformative melodies. All the while, DJ Mark DiVita fills Town Fare with eclectic beats, setting a vibrant and inviting atmosphere with cocktails, bites, and mingling among new friends or old.
In addition, every ThursDates at OMCA offers a rich gallery experience with Gallery Chats from 5:30–7:30 pm. Unlike traditional tours, these conversations invite you to ask questions, share perspectives, and engage with OMCA facilitators who blend content expertise with lived experience. Gallery Chats take place in our Special Exhibitions and our Galleries of California Art and History, and are included with Museum and Special Exhibition admission. This is a night made for lingering, discovering, and celebrating creativity, community, and culture in every form.
Program Schedule:
5–7:30 pm Gallery Chats | Great Hall and the Galleries of California Art and History
5:30–7:30 pm Crochet Jam with Ramekon O’Arwisters| Gallery of California Art
5:30–7:30 pm Music Set with DJ Mark DiVita | Town Fare Café
6–6:30 pm Live Musical Performance with Mia Pixley | Gallery of California Art
7–7:30 pm Live Musical Performance with Mia Pixley | Gallery of California Art
About ThursDates
Every Thursday, January through March, step into OMCA’s warm after-hours glow. Experience a rotating mix of intimate performances, live figure drawing sessions, game nights, and more—designed just for adults. Or sip a signature cocktail and grab a light bite in Town Fare by Michele McQueen, all to a soundtrack of local Oakland artists and DJs.
Whether you’re exploring the Museum with a date, catching up with friends, or are coming solo and looking to meet someone new, you’ll find connection, inspiration, and creative surprises, week after week.
